Album Review: Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

Originally published March 05, 2008 in The Orion

Bon Iver
For Emma, Forever Ago
Jagjaguwar Records, 2008
4/5 stars

Bon Iver's debut solo album is the epitome of soul-searching. The sounds are eerie, quiet and intimate.

Justin Vernon, the man behind the stage name of Bon Iver, hid away in a Wisconsin cabin for three months to write and record "For Emma, Forever Ago."

The simple sounds of acoustic guitar reflect the loneliness of winter, but Vernon's falsetto voice captures listeners with sincerity.

Bon Iver prevents the soft songs from becoming depressing by making subtle tempo changes. "Skinny Love" begins at a steady rhythm, but gradually speeds up as Vernon's voice adds intensity and volume.

The lyrics read like a private journal, but listeners will have no trouble relating to the themes of love and life's mystical wonders.

Luckily, Bon Iver has no objection to sharing his thoughts with the world.